TEST: Adam A8H

Adam Audio has had a very good reputation in the scene for some time. Company-defining components such as the X-ART folded ribbon tweeter also help to strengthen the position and assert itself against the anything but weak competition. With the Adam A8H, Adam already has a slight taste of air in the midfield area due to the performance data, but is still marketed in the nearfield monitor area. Let's see how the product performs, which has lots of interesting features.
The construction of the Adam A8H
The Adam A8H is a 3-way monitor that can be operated both horizontally and vertically. The position intended by the manufacturer is horizontal, but by rotating the tweeter, which is attached with 4 screws and sits in an HPS waveguide, the monitor can be used upright even in tight spaces. As expected, the monitor is available in a left and a right version, which with a retail price of €1,549 per box will shock some users, but can be seen as comparatively cheap for the expected performance.
The system has the dimensions (H x W x D): 274 mm x 382 mm x 329 mm and weighs 13.6 kg per box. Not really much, but it is recommended to work with appropriate tripods. The power of the individual speakers is RMS 250 W (8" MLM woofer), 70 W (3.5" MLM midrange driver) and 20 watts (X-Art tweeter). which corresponds to a total output of 340 watts RMS with a max. SPL @ 1m of 105 dB. The frequency response is given as 34 Hz - 41 kHz, the crossover frequencies are 400 Hz and 3 kHz.
The housing is cleanly processed and covered with a high-quality, black textured paint. In order to prevent phase problems caused by edge reflections, particularly in the high frequency range, the upper side edges were discreetly beveled. Funnel-shaped bass reflex openings below the bass speakers ensure stronger bass reproduction and reduce any ventilation noise. For wall or fixed mounting, the housing has 4 M8 screw threads on the bottom to ensure a secure stand even in an inclined position.
If the Adam A8H is registered on the Adam website, Adam offers an extension of the warranty to 5 years.
The DSP area of the Adam A8H
The Adam A8H monitor has an internal DSP, which, among other things, enables several external interventions. With an internal sample rate of 96 kHz and a 24 bit AD converter, the Adam A8H offers a 4-fold EQ with the parameters "Bass", "Desk", "Presence" and "Treble", with which you can adapt the system to the The acoustics of the room can be adjusted and its control buttons have been attached to the back of the housing. You can choose over 100 different combination options using various presets or manually. Furthermore, 3 different voicings can be set, 2 Adam presets and an individually created one. What seems interesting is the fact that Adam also offers RCA connections in this performance class in addition to the
Another highlight is the connection to the A Control software via Ethernet, which enables remote control for all important parameters. The A Control software can be downloaded free of charge from the Adam website. In the A Control software, additional sound optimization tools, such as the Sonarworks profiles, can be imported directly into the DSP of the Adam A8H.
Many manufacturers use DSP for crossover and voicing, but the current generation of DSP monitors integrate speaker calibration into their monitors. This in itself is nothing new, Dynaudio introduced this onboard calibration over 20 years ago with the AIR series and more recently Genelec also introduced its proprietary GLM system. However, pure software products like Sonarworks Sound ID and IK Multimedias ARC are extremely popular and when it comes to ease of use, there is indeed nothing better. However, using software in your listening chain is invasive and occasionally a bit frustrating. The A series, on the other hand, offers the option of loading the Sonarworks calibration into the monitors' internal DSP, where it belongs. A-Series customers also get access to an extended 60-day trial version of Sonarworks, so you only need to factor in the cost of a measurement microphone.
The sound of the Adam A8H
Like most other monitor manufacturers, Adam Audio also recommends that customers let their loudspeakers “swing in” over a longer period of time in order to free all components from the rigidity of production and to ensure that the individual components have the necessary elasticity. Adam Audio is talking about at least 8 hours of “complex material”, which covers the entire frequency range and also briefly challenges the performance data of the monitors. In order to give monitors of this performance class an optimal development opportunity, I would personally recommend placing the speakers at least 1.5 meters away from the listening position, otherwise there is a risk of uneven perception. Due to the bass reflex opening on the front, it is also possible, with the necessary care, to place the speakers a little closer to the wall than usual. However, the range below 300 Hz should always be treated with the necessary caution.
Even the first tones that come out of the speakers show which sonic league we are in, even without any measurement or EQ post-processing. A fundamentally neutral basic sound with a very well-defined low bass and the well-known Adam high frequency range is revealed right from the start and will make any experienced sound engineer sit up and take notice. The monitors cope excellently with any type of sound information, be it pop, classical or metal, every impulse is reproduced cleanly and, above all, very fatigue-free at any volume.
Rarely have I experienced such clean and well-defined reproduction from individual 8-inch woofers, even below 70 Hz, which only makes the use of a separate subwoofer necessary in very large control rooms. As expected, the treble range also leaves a very good impression, although depending on the sound material, you can notice a very fine resolution above 10 kHz, especially in the hi-hat / cymbal area during drum takes. Impressive! There is really no need to mention the usual standards such as depth grading, impulse behavior etc., everything is at the highest level.
In contrast to a two-way solution, a system in the style of the Adam A8H can of course show off its strengths, particularly in the midrange, as the notorious crossover dip is eliminated. Conversely, this also means that the areas of vocals and guitars in particular appear much more prominent in the mix and must therefore be viewed accordingly in the overall context. You shouldn't make the mistake of placing the same instruments too far in the background in the mix because of the better location in terms of both volume and spatial connection.
Interestingly, compared to many other monitors that I usually test, I only needed an extremely short listening time of a few minutes to get used to the sound of the Adam A8H. No inflated bass boom, no unpleasantly excessive mid-range presence and no piercing highs, but an extremely neutral and analytical sound image offers an excellent basis, which you can then later adjust to your personal taste using the EQ software.
So everything is at the highest level? Yes, except for one downside! I couldn't believe it, but even a high-end monitor like the Adam A8H suffers from the “noisegate” disease, which is now wreaking havoc on so many providers. To be fair, the system must be said to be very quiet when the power amplifiers are switched off after the signal is interrupted, but it is what it is, after about 4 seconds the system is deactivated with a slight “click” due to background noise , which can get on your nerves depending on your personal level of suffering. No offense, but in this price range, especially when the sound of the system is beyond criticism, I would have expected a better solution, for example a manual deactivation of the auto mute using a simple pressure switch on the back of the housing.
Conclusion
With the Adam A8H, the Berlin manufacturer has an excellent 3-way monitor in its portfolio, which targets the transition area from nearfield to midfiled. The performance data is definitely sufficient for larger control rooms and in most cases makes the often used subwoofer seem obsolete.
The monitor impresses across the board with an excellently neutral sound, a very well-defined and deep bass range and the classic Adam high-frequency range, which forms its own sound group due to the ribbon tweeter.
If you are looking for professional, very good-sounding and powerful A-monitoring, you should definitely try this system out.
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Additional Informations:

Adam Audio stands as a prominent player in the world of professional audio, renowned for its commitment to delivering precision and innovation in sound reproduction. Founded in 1999 by Klaus Heinz and Roland Stenz, the German-based company has consistently pushed the boundaries of audio technology. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of Adam Audio, its founding principles, and the groundbreaking inventions that have solidified its position as an industry leader.

1. Founding Principles and Vision

Adam Audio was born out of a shared passion for audio excellence between Klaus Heinz and Roland Stenz. The company's foundation was laid on the principles of precision, transparency, and innovation in sound reproduction. The vision was to create audio products that not only met but exceeded the expectations of professionals in various industries, including recording studios, broadcast facilities, and home studios.

2. Proprietary Technologies

Adam Audio has been at the forefront of developing and implementing proprietary technologies that set its products apart in terms of sonic accuracy and reliability. Some notable technologies include:

   a. **Accelerating Ribbon Technology (ART):** Central to Adam Audio's success is the ART tweeter, an innovative design that combines the advantages of both ribbon and dome tweeter technologies. This approach results in extended frequency response, reduced distortion, and exceptional transient response.

   b. **X-ART (eXtended Accelerating Ribbon Technology):** A refinement of the original ART, the X-ART tweeter takes the concept further with an even larger folded diaphragm area. This technology contributes to the exceptional clarity and detail for which Adam Audio monitors are renowned.

   c. **HexaCone Woofers:** Adam Audio employs HexaCone woofers in its speaker designs. These woofers feature a honeycomb structure that enhances rigidity and minimizes cone breakup, allowing for a more controlled and accurate bass response.

   d. **Integrated Amplification Systems:** Adam Audio has embraced the concept of integrated amplification in its monitor designs. By matching amplifiers precisely to the characteristics of individual drivers, the company ensures optimal performance and synergy in its speaker systems.

3. Signature Series Monitors

Adam Audio's success is epitomized by its signature series of studio monitors, which have become a staple in professional recording environments worldwide. The A7, A8X, and A77X are examples of monitors that showcase the company's commitment to delivering a transparent and reliable listening experience.

   a. **A7 Series:** The A7 series, featuring models like the A7X, has become a reference in nearfield monitoring. With a balanced frequency response and precise imaging, these monitors are favored by recording engineers, producers, and musicians seeking accuracy in a compact form factor.

   b. **A8X Series:** The A8X series represents a step up in size and power, catering to larger studios and critical listening applications. The additional woofer size contributes to extended low-frequency response without compromising the precision that defines Adam Audio monitors.

   c. **A77X Series:** The A77X is a flagship model that incorporates Adam Audio's innovative X-ART tweeter and dual woofers. This three-way design provides exceptional imaging and depth, making it a choice tool for mastering engineers and professionals with discerning ears.

4. Industry Recognition and Collaborations

Adam Audio's commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed in the industry. The company's monitors have received accolades and awards for their exceptional performance and design. Moreover, Adam Audio has engaged in collaborations with renowned professionals and institutions, further solidifying its reputation as a trusted partner in the audio community.

   a. **Collaborations with Engineers and Producers:** Adam Audio actively seeks input from audio professionals in the development of its products. This collaborative approach ensures that the monitors meet the rigorous demands of those working in diverse sound production environments.

   b. **Educational Initiatives:** Recognizing the importance of education in the audio industry, Adam Audio has been involved in initiatives to support aspiring audio engineers and producers. This includes partnerships with educational institutions and participation in workshops and seminars.

5. Sustainable Practices and Corporate Responsibility

In addition to its focus on technological innovation, Adam Audio places importance on sustainability and corporate responsibility. The company strives to minimize its environmental impact through eco-friendly manufacturing practices and the use of recyclable materials in its products.

   a. **Environmentally Conscious Manufacturing:** Adam Audio incorporates sustainable practices in its manufacturing processes, reducing waste and energy consumption. The company's commitment to environmental responsibility aligns with the growing awareness of sustainability in the global business landscape.

   b. **Recyclable Packaging:** Adam Audio embraces recyclable packaging materials, minimizing the environmental footprint associated with its products. This commitment reflects a holistic approach to corporate responsibility and environmental stewardship.

Conclusion

Adam Audio's journey from its founding principles to its current status as a global leader in professional audio is marked by a dedication to innovation, precision, and collaboration. The company's proprietary technologies, signature series monitors, industry recognitions, and sustainable practices collectively showcase a commitment to advancing the art and science of sound reproduction. As Adam Audio continues to shape the future of audio technology, its legacy remains embedded in the studios, stages, and creative spaces where professionals rely on the company's expertise to bring their sonic visions to life.